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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20220928T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20220928T133000
DTSTAMP:20260610T053302
CREATED:20210708T161408Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220923T162244Z
UID:14066-1664368200-1664371800@www.dnswm.org
SUMMARY:Access Team
DESCRIPTION:About #DWord Book Club		\n				\n				\n				\n							#DWord refers to the word “disability.”  Disability Network Southwest Michigan is thrilled to partner with Kalamazoo Public Library to provide the #DWord Book Club\, a book club dedicated to promoting access\, connection\, disability pride\, and spreading the message that Disability is not a bad word. \nJoin us for an opportunity to engage in respectful\, thought-provoking discussions of books by and about people with disabilities\, uplifting lived experiences from across the Disability Community and creating space for meaningful conversation and connection. \nAll are welcome\, whether you’re new to disability-focused literature or a longtime reader/consumer. This is a cost-free group and participants are not required to have a library card to join. To ensure accessibility for all\, each book is available in print\, digital\, and audiobook formats. 						\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																										\n				\n				\n				\n					\n			\n		\n				\n				\n				\n				\n							August’s book selection is I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults\, Autism Parents\, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards. 						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n				\n			August Meeting Details		\n				\n				\n				\n							Wednesday\, August 19\, 2026\, from 6:00 to 7:30 PMLocation: CEN/Boardroom at Kalamazoo Public Library\, located at 315 S. Rose St\, Kalamazoo\, MI 49007.Registration is not required for in-person participation.						\n				\n				\n				\n			Accommodations & Joining Virtually		\n				\n				\n				\n							Accommodations can be provided upon request. Call at Kalamazoo Public Library staff member Jade W. at (269) 553-7944 or reach out to her online. If in-person participation isn’t a good fit for any reason\, contact Jade for the opportunity to participate virtually via Zoom. 						\n				\n				\n				\n			About the Book Selection		\n				\n				\n				\n							August’s book selection is I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults\, Autism Parents\, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards. ABOUT — There is a significant divide between autistic advocates and parents of autistic children. Parents may feel attacked for their lack of understanding\, and autistic adults who offer insight and guidance are also met with hostility and rejection. Meghan Ashburn\, a mother of two autistic boys\, and Jules Edwards\, an autistic parent\, were no strangers to this tension and had an adversarial relationship when they first met. Over time\, the two resolved their differences and are now co-conspirators in the pursuit of disability justice. This book unites both perspectives\, exploring the rift between these communities and encouraging them to work towards a common goal. It provides context to dividing issues\, and the authors use their experience to illustrate where they’ve messed up\, where they’ve got things right\, and what they’ve learned along the way. 						\n				\n				\n				\n					\n			\n						\n		\n				\n				\n				\n				\n							For more information on this quarterly event and upcoming reading selections\, visit our #DWord Book Club page.
URL:https://www.dnswm.org/event/access-team-3-2021-10-13-2022-09-28/
LOCATION:Disability Network – Community Bldg Kalamazoo\, 517 E. Crosstown Parkway\, Kalamazoo\, MI\, 49001\, United States
CATEGORIES:Advocacy Group
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20220927T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20220927T110000
DTSTAMP:20260610T053303
CREATED:20210708T160355Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230516T184725Z
UID:14000-1664276400-1664276400@www.dnswm.org
SUMMARY:Phenomenal Women Support Group
DESCRIPTION:About #DWord Book Club		\n				\n				\n				\n							#DWord refers to the word “disability.”  Disability Network Southwest Michigan is thrilled to partner with Kalamazoo Public Library to provide the #DWord Book Club\, a book club dedicated to promoting access\, connection\, disability pride\, and spreading the message that Disability is not a bad word. \nJoin us for an opportunity to engage in respectful\, thought-provoking discussions of books by and about people with disabilities\, uplifting lived experiences from across the Disability Community and creating space for meaningful conversation and connection. \nAll are welcome\, whether you’re new to disability-focused literature or a longtime reader/consumer. This is a cost-free group and participants are not required to have a library card to join. To ensure accessibility for all\, each book is available in print\, digital\, and audiobook formats. 						\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																										\n				\n				\n				\n					\n			\n		\n				\n				\n				\n				\n							August’s book selection is I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults\, Autism Parents\, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards. 						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n				\n			August Meeting Details		\n				\n				\n				\n							Wednesday\, August 19\, 2026\, from 6:00 to 7:30 PMLocation: CEN/Boardroom at Kalamazoo Public Library\, located at 315 S. Rose St\, Kalamazoo\, MI 49007.Registration is not required for in-person participation.						\n				\n				\n				\n			Accommodations & Joining Virtually		\n				\n				\n				\n							Accommodations can be provided upon request. Call at Kalamazoo Public Library staff member Jade W. at (269) 553-7944 or reach out to her online. If in-person participation isn’t a good fit for any reason\, contact Jade for the opportunity to participate virtually via Zoom. 						\n				\n				\n				\n			About the Book Selection		\n				\n				\n				\n							August’s book selection is I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults\, Autism Parents\, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards. ABOUT — There is a significant divide between autistic advocates and parents of autistic children. Parents may feel attacked for their lack of understanding\, and autistic adults who offer insight and guidance are also met with hostility and rejection. Meghan Ashburn\, a mother of two autistic boys\, and Jules Edwards\, an autistic parent\, were no strangers to this tension and had an adversarial relationship when they first met. Over time\, the two resolved their differences and are now co-conspirators in the pursuit of disability justice. This book unites both perspectives\, exploring the rift between these communities and encouraging them to work towards a common goal. It provides context to dividing issues\, and the authors use their experience to illustrate where they’ve messed up\, where they’ve got things right\, and what they’ve learned along the way. 						\n				\n				\n				\n					\n			\n						\n		\n				\n				\n				\n				\n							For more information on this quarterly event and upcoming reading selections\, visit our #DWord Book Club page.
URL:https://www.dnswm.org/event/phenomenal-women-support-group-2021-10-05-2022-09-27/
LOCATION:Disability Network – Community Bldg Kalamazoo\, 517 E. Crosstown Parkway\, Kalamazoo\, MI\, 49001\, United States
CATEGORIES:Support Group
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20220606T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20220606T103000
DTSTAMP:20260610T053303
CREATED:20220531T202003Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220923T162445Z
UID:13681-1654507800-1654511400@www.dnswm.org
SUMMARY:Spirit Club - Virtual Exercise
DESCRIPTION:About #DWord Book Club		\n				\n				\n				\n							#DWord refers to the word “disability.”  Disability Network Southwest Michigan is thrilled to partner with Kalamazoo Public Library to provide the #DWord Book Club\, a book club dedicated to promoting access\, connection\, disability pride\, and spreading the message that Disability is not a bad word. \nJoin us for an opportunity to engage in respectful\, thought-provoking discussions of books by and about people with disabilities\, uplifting lived experiences from across the Disability Community and creating space for meaningful conversation and connection. \nAll are welcome\, whether you’re new to disability-focused literature or a longtime reader/consumer. This is a cost-free group and participants are not required to have a library card to join. To ensure accessibility for all\, each book is available in print\, digital\, and audiobook formats. 						\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																										\n				\n				\n				\n					\n			\n		\n				\n				\n				\n				\n							August’s book selection is I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults\, Autism Parents\, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards. 						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n				\n			August Meeting Details		\n				\n				\n				\n							Wednesday\, August 19\, 2026\, from 6:00 to 7:30 PMLocation: CEN/Boardroom at Kalamazoo Public Library\, located at 315 S. Rose St\, Kalamazoo\, MI 49007.Registration is not required for in-person participation.						\n				\n				\n				\n			Accommodations & Joining Virtually		\n				\n				\n				\n							Accommodations can be provided upon request. Call at Kalamazoo Public Library staff member Jade W. at (269) 553-7944 or reach out to her online. If in-person participation isn’t a good fit for any reason\, contact Jade for the opportunity to participate virtually via Zoom. 						\n				\n				\n				\n			About the Book Selection		\n				\n				\n				\n							August’s book selection is I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults\, Autism Parents\, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards. ABOUT — There is a significant divide between autistic advocates and parents of autistic children. Parents may feel attacked for their lack of understanding\, and autistic adults who offer insight and guidance are also met with hostility and rejection. Meghan Ashburn\, a mother of two autistic boys\, and Jules Edwards\, an autistic parent\, were no strangers to this tension and had an adversarial relationship when they first met. Over time\, the two resolved their differences and are now co-conspirators in the pursuit of disability justice. This book unites both perspectives\, exploring the rift between these communities and encouraging them to work towards a common goal. It provides context to dividing issues\, and the authors use their experience to illustrate where they’ve messed up\, where they’ve got things right\, and what they’ve learned along the way. 						\n				\n				\n				\n					\n			\n						\n		\n				\n				\n				\n				\n							For more information on this quarterly event and upcoming reading selections\, visit our #DWord Book Club page.
URL:https://www.dnswm.org/event/spirit-club-virtual-exercise-3/
CATEGORIES:Social
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20220929T133000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20220929T153000
DTSTAMP:20260610T053303
CREATED:20220823T192649Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220923T161752Z
UID:14213-1664458200-1664465400@www.dnswm.org
SUMMARY:Brain Injury Survivors Meeting
DESCRIPTION:About #DWord Book Club		\n				\n				\n				\n							#DWord refers to the word “disability.”  Disability Network Southwest Michigan is thrilled to partner with Kalamazoo Public Library to provide the #DWord Book Club\, a book club dedicated to promoting access\, connection\, disability pride\, and spreading the message that Disability is not a bad word. \nJoin us for an opportunity to engage in respectful\, thought-provoking discussions of books by and about people with disabilities\, uplifting lived experiences from across the Disability Community and creating space for meaningful conversation and connection. \nAll are welcome\, whether you’re new to disability-focused literature or a longtime reader/consumer. This is a cost-free group and participants are not required to have a library card to join. To ensure accessibility for all\, each book is available in print\, digital\, and audiobook formats. 						\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																										\n				\n				\n				\n					\n			\n		\n				\n				\n				\n				\n							August’s book selection is I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults\, Autism Parents\, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards. 						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n				\n			August Meeting Details		\n				\n				\n				\n							Wednesday\, August 19\, 2026\, from 6:00 to 7:30 PMLocation: CEN/Boardroom at Kalamazoo Public Library\, located at 315 S. Rose St\, Kalamazoo\, MI 49007.Registration is not required for in-person participation.						\n				\n				\n				\n			Accommodations & Joining Virtually		\n				\n				\n				\n							Accommodations can be provided upon request. Call at Kalamazoo Public Library staff member Jade W. at (269) 553-7944 or reach out to her online. If in-person participation isn’t a good fit for any reason\, contact Jade for the opportunity to participate virtually via Zoom. 						\n				\n				\n				\n			About the Book Selection		\n				\n				\n				\n							August’s book selection is I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults\, Autism Parents\, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards. ABOUT — There is a significant divide between autistic advocates and parents of autistic children. Parents may feel attacked for their lack of understanding\, and autistic adults who offer insight and guidance are also met with hostility and rejection. Meghan Ashburn\, a mother of two autistic boys\, and Jules Edwards\, an autistic parent\, were no strangers to this tension and had an adversarial relationship when they first met. Over time\, the two resolved their differences and are now co-conspirators in the pursuit of disability justice. This book unites both perspectives\, exploring the rift between these communities and encouraging them to work towards a common goal. It provides context to dividing issues\, and the authors use their experience to illustrate where they’ve messed up\, where they’ve got things right\, and what they’ve learned along the way. 						\n				\n				\n				\n					\n			\n						\n		\n				\n				\n				\n				\n							For more information on this quarterly event and upcoming reading selections\, visit our #DWord Book Club page.
URL:https://www.dnswm.org/event/brain-injury-survivors-meeting-2022-09-29/
LOCATION:Disability Network – Community Bldg Kalamazoo\, 517 E. Crosstown Parkway\, Kalamazoo\, MI\, 49001\, United States
CATEGORIES:Social,Support Group
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20220927T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20220927T110000
DTSTAMP:20260610T053303
CREATED:20210708T160355Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230516T184725Z
UID:14000-1664276400-1664276400@www.dnswm.org
SUMMARY:Phenomenal Women Support Group
DESCRIPTION:About #DWord Book Club		\n				\n				\n				\n							#DWord refers to the word “disability.”  Disability Network Southwest Michigan is thrilled to partner with Kalamazoo Public Library to provide the #DWord Book Club\, a book club dedicated to promoting access\, connection\, disability pride\, and spreading the message that Disability is not a bad word. \nJoin us for an opportunity to engage in respectful\, thought-provoking discussions of books by and about people with disabilities\, uplifting lived experiences from across the Disability Community and creating space for meaningful conversation and connection. \nAll are welcome\, whether you’re new to disability-focused literature or a longtime reader/consumer. This is a cost-free group and participants are not required to have a library card to join. To ensure accessibility for all\, each book is available in print\, digital\, and audiobook formats. 						\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																										\n				\n				\n				\n					\n			\n		\n				\n				\n				\n				\n							August’s book selection is I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults\, Autism Parents\, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards. 						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n				\n			August Meeting Details		\n				\n				\n				\n							Wednesday\, August 19\, 2026\, from 6:00 to 7:30 PMLocation: CEN/Boardroom at Kalamazoo Public Library\, located at 315 S. Rose St\, Kalamazoo\, MI 49007.Registration is not required for in-person participation.						\n				\n				\n				\n			Accommodations & Joining Virtually		\n				\n				\n				\n							Accommodations can be provided upon request. Call at Kalamazoo Public Library staff member Jade W. at (269) 553-7944 or reach out to her online. If in-person participation isn’t a good fit for any reason\, contact Jade for the opportunity to participate virtually via Zoom. 						\n				\n				\n				\n			About the Book Selection		\n				\n				\n				\n							August’s book selection is I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults\, Autism Parents\, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards. ABOUT — There is a significant divide between autistic advocates and parents of autistic children. Parents may feel attacked for their lack of understanding\, and autistic adults who offer insight and guidance are also met with hostility and rejection. Meghan Ashburn\, a mother of two autistic boys\, and Jules Edwards\, an autistic parent\, were no strangers to this tension and had an adversarial relationship when they first met. Over time\, the two resolved their differences and are now co-conspirators in the pursuit of disability justice. This book unites both perspectives\, exploring the rift between these communities and encouraging them to work towards a common goal. It provides context to dividing issues\, and the authors use their experience to illustrate where they’ve messed up\, where they’ve got things right\, and what they’ve learned along the way. 						\n				\n				\n				\n					\n			\n						\n		\n				\n				\n				\n				\n							For more information on this quarterly event and upcoming reading selections\, visit our #DWord Book Club page.
URL:https://www.dnswm.org/event/phenomenal-women-support-group-2021-10-05-2022-09-27/
LOCATION:Disability Network – Community Bldg Kalamazoo\, 517 E. Crosstown Parkway\, Kalamazoo\, MI\, 49001\, United States
CATEGORIES:Support Group
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20221206T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20221206T113000
DTSTAMP:20260610T053303
CREATED:20221219T221521Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20221219T221522Z
UID:16969-1670320800-1670326200@www.dnswm.org
SUMMARY:Autistic Adult Peer Support - Tuesday
DESCRIPTION:About #DWord Book Club		\n				\n				\n				\n							#DWord refers to the word “disability.”  Disability Network Southwest Michigan is thrilled to partner with Kalamazoo Public Library to provide the #DWord Book Club\, a book club dedicated to promoting access\, connection\, disability pride\, and spreading the message that Disability is not a bad word. \nJoin us for an opportunity to engage in respectful\, thought-provoking discussions of books by and about people with disabilities\, uplifting lived experiences from across the Disability Community and creating space for meaningful conversation and connection. \nAll are welcome\, whether you’re new to disability-focused literature or a longtime reader/consumer. This is a cost-free group and participants are not required to have a library card to join. To ensure accessibility for all\, each book is available in print\, digital\, and audiobook formats. 						\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																										\n				\n				\n				\n					\n			\n		\n				\n				\n				\n				\n							August’s book selection is I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults\, Autism Parents\, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards. 						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n				\n			August Meeting Details		\n				\n				\n				\n							Wednesday\, August 19\, 2026\, from 6:00 to 7:30 PMLocation: CEN/Boardroom at Kalamazoo Public Library\, located at 315 S. Rose St\, Kalamazoo\, MI 49007.Registration is not required for in-person participation.						\n				\n				\n				\n			Accommodations & Joining Virtually		\n				\n				\n				\n							Accommodations can be provided upon request. Call at Kalamazoo Public Library staff member Jade W. at (269) 553-7944 or reach out to her online. If in-person participation isn’t a good fit for any reason\, contact Jade for the opportunity to participate virtually via Zoom. 						\n				\n				\n				\n			About the Book Selection		\n				\n				\n				\n							August’s book selection is I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults\, Autism Parents\, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards. ABOUT — There is a significant divide between autistic advocates and parents of autistic children. Parents may feel attacked for their lack of understanding\, and autistic adults who offer insight and guidance are also met with hostility and rejection. Meghan Ashburn\, a mother of two autistic boys\, and Jules Edwards\, an autistic parent\, were no strangers to this tension and had an adversarial relationship when they first met. Over time\, the two resolved their differences and are now co-conspirators in the pursuit of disability justice. This book unites both perspectives\, exploring the rift between these communities and encouraging them to work towards a common goal. It provides context to dividing issues\, and the authors use their experience to illustrate where they’ve messed up\, where they’ve got things right\, and what they’ve learned along the way. 						\n				\n				\n				\n					\n			\n						\n		\n				\n				\n				\n				\n							For more information on this quarterly event and upcoming reading selections\, visit our #DWord Book Club page.
URL:https://www.dnswm.org/event/autistic-adult-peer-support-tuesday-2/
CATEGORIES:Social,Support Group
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20220606T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20220606T103000
DTSTAMP:20260610T053303
CREATED:20220531T202003Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220923T162445Z
UID:13681-1654507800-1654511400@www.dnswm.org
SUMMARY:Spirit Club - Virtual Exercise
DESCRIPTION:About #DWord Book Club		\n				\n				\n				\n							#DWord refers to the word “disability.”  Disability Network Southwest Michigan is thrilled to partner with Kalamazoo Public Library to provide the #DWord Book Club\, a book club dedicated to promoting access\, connection\, disability pride\, and spreading the message that Disability is not a bad word. \nJoin us for an opportunity to engage in respectful\, thought-provoking discussions of books by and about people with disabilities\, uplifting lived experiences from across the Disability Community and creating space for meaningful conversation and connection. \nAll are welcome\, whether you’re new to disability-focused literature or a longtime reader/consumer. This is a cost-free group and participants are not required to have a library card to join. To ensure accessibility for all\, each book is available in print\, digital\, and audiobook formats. 						\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																										\n				\n				\n				\n					\n			\n		\n				\n				\n				\n				\n							August’s book selection is I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults\, Autism Parents\, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards. 						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n				\n			August Meeting Details		\n				\n				\n				\n							Wednesday\, August 19\, 2026\, from 6:00 to 7:30 PMLocation: CEN/Boardroom at Kalamazoo Public Library\, located at 315 S. Rose St\, Kalamazoo\, MI 49007.Registration is not required for in-person participation.						\n				\n				\n				\n			Accommodations & Joining Virtually		\n				\n				\n				\n							Accommodations can be provided upon request. Call at Kalamazoo Public Library staff member Jade W. at (269) 553-7944 or reach out to her online. If in-person participation isn’t a good fit for any reason\, contact Jade for the opportunity to participate virtually via Zoom. 						\n				\n				\n				\n			About the Book Selection		\n				\n				\n				\n							August’s book selection is I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults\, Autism Parents\, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards. ABOUT — There is a significant divide between autistic advocates and parents of autistic children. Parents may feel attacked for their lack of understanding\, and autistic adults who offer insight and guidance are also met with hostility and rejection. Meghan Ashburn\, a mother of two autistic boys\, and Jules Edwards\, an autistic parent\, were no strangers to this tension and had an adversarial relationship when they first met. Over time\, the two resolved their differences and are now co-conspirators in the pursuit of disability justice. This book unites both perspectives\, exploring the rift between these communities and encouraging them to work towards a common goal. It provides context to dividing issues\, and the authors use their experience to illustrate where they’ve messed up\, where they’ve got things right\, and what they’ve learned along the way. 						\n				\n				\n				\n					\n			\n						\n		\n				\n				\n				\n				\n							For more information on this quarterly event and upcoming reading selections\, visit our #DWord Book Club page.
URL:https://www.dnswm.org/event/spirit-club-virtual-exercise-3/
CATEGORIES:Social
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20221201T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20221201T173000
DTSTAMP:20260610T053303
CREATED:20221129T183831Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20221129T184153Z
UID:15741-1669910400-1669915800@www.dnswm.org
SUMMARY:Autistic Adult Peer Support – Thursday
DESCRIPTION:About #DWord Book Club		\n				\n				\n				\n							#DWord refers to the word “disability.”  Disability Network Southwest Michigan is thrilled to partner with Kalamazoo Public Library to provide the #DWord Book Club\, a book club dedicated to promoting access\, connection\, disability pride\, and spreading the message that Disability is not a bad word. \nJoin us for an opportunity to engage in respectful\, thought-provoking discussions of books by and about people with disabilities\, uplifting lived experiences from across the Disability Community and creating space for meaningful conversation and connection. \nAll are welcome\, whether you’re new to disability-focused literature or a longtime reader/consumer. This is a cost-free group and participants are not required to have a library card to join. To ensure accessibility for all\, each book is available in print\, digital\, and audiobook formats. 						\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																										\n				\n				\n				\n					\n			\n		\n				\n				\n				\n				\n							August’s book selection is I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults\, Autism Parents\, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards. 						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n				\n			August Meeting Details		\n				\n				\n				\n							Wednesday\, August 19\, 2026\, from 6:00 to 7:30 PMLocation: CEN/Boardroom at Kalamazoo Public Library\, located at 315 S. Rose St\, Kalamazoo\, MI 49007.Registration is not required for in-person participation.						\n				\n				\n				\n			Accommodations & Joining Virtually		\n				\n				\n				\n							Accommodations can be provided upon request. Call at Kalamazoo Public Library staff member Jade W. at (269) 553-7944 or reach out to her online. If in-person participation isn’t a good fit for any reason\, contact Jade for the opportunity to participate virtually via Zoom. 						\n				\n				\n				\n			About the Book Selection		\n				\n				\n				\n							August’s book selection is I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults\, Autism Parents\, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards. ABOUT — There is a significant divide between autistic advocates and parents of autistic children. Parents may feel attacked for their lack of understanding\, and autistic adults who offer insight and guidance are also met with hostility and rejection. Meghan Ashburn\, a mother of two autistic boys\, and Jules Edwards\, an autistic parent\, were no strangers to this tension and had an adversarial relationship when they first met. Over time\, the two resolved their differences and are now co-conspirators in the pursuit of disability justice. This book unites both perspectives\, exploring the rift between these communities and encouraging them to work towards a common goal. It provides context to dividing issues\, and the authors use their experience to illustrate where they’ve messed up\, where they’ve got things right\, and what they’ve learned along the way. 						\n				\n				\n				\n					\n			\n						\n		\n				\n				\n				\n				\n							For more information on this quarterly event and upcoming reading selections\, visit our #DWord Book Club page.
URL:https://www.dnswm.org/event/autistic-adult-peer-support-2/
CATEGORIES:Social,Support Group
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20220929T133000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20220929T153000
DTSTAMP:20260610T053303
CREATED:20220823T192649Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220923T161752Z
UID:14213-1664458200-1664465400@www.dnswm.org
SUMMARY:Brain Injury Survivors Meeting
DESCRIPTION:About #DWord Book Club		\n				\n				\n				\n							#DWord refers to the word “disability.”  Disability Network Southwest Michigan is thrilled to partner with Kalamazoo Public Library to provide the #DWord Book Club\, a book club dedicated to promoting access\, connection\, disability pride\, and spreading the message that Disability is not a bad word. \nJoin us for an opportunity to engage in respectful\, thought-provoking discussions of books by and about people with disabilities\, uplifting lived experiences from across the Disability Community and creating space for meaningful conversation and connection. \nAll are welcome\, whether you’re new to disability-focused literature or a longtime reader/consumer. This is a cost-free group and participants are not required to have a library card to join. To ensure accessibility for all\, each book is available in print\, digital\, and audiobook formats. 						\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																										\n				\n				\n				\n					\n			\n		\n				\n				\n				\n				\n							August’s book selection is I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults\, Autism Parents\, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards. 						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n				\n			August Meeting Details		\n				\n				\n				\n							Wednesday\, August 19\, 2026\, from 6:00 to 7:30 PMLocation: CEN/Boardroom at Kalamazoo Public Library\, located at 315 S. Rose St\, Kalamazoo\, MI 49007.Registration is not required for in-person participation.						\n				\n				\n				\n			Accommodations & Joining Virtually		\n				\n				\n				\n							Accommodations can be provided upon request. Call at Kalamazoo Public Library staff member Jade W. at (269) 553-7944 or reach out to her online. If in-person participation isn’t a good fit for any reason\, contact Jade for the opportunity to participate virtually via Zoom. 						\n				\n				\n				\n			About the Book Selection		\n				\n				\n				\n							August’s book selection is I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults\, Autism Parents\, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards. ABOUT — There is a significant divide between autistic advocates and parents of autistic children. Parents may feel attacked for their lack of understanding\, and autistic adults who offer insight and guidance are also met with hostility and rejection. Meghan Ashburn\, a mother of two autistic boys\, and Jules Edwards\, an autistic parent\, were no strangers to this tension and had an adversarial relationship when they first met. Over time\, the two resolved their differences and are now co-conspirators in the pursuit of disability justice. This book unites both perspectives\, exploring the rift between these communities and encouraging them to work towards a common goal. It provides context to dividing issues\, and the authors use their experience to illustrate where they’ve messed up\, where they’ve got things right\, and what they’ve learned along the way. 						\n				\n				\n				\n					\n			\n						\n		\n				\n				\n				\n				\n							For more information on this quarterly event and upcoming reading selections\, visit our #DWord Book Club page.
URL:https://www.dnswm.org/event/brain-injury-survivors-meeting-2022-09-29/
LOCATION:Disability Network – Community Bldg Kalamazoo\, 517 E. Crosstown Parkway\, Kalamazoo\, MI\, 49001\, United States
CATEGORIES:Social,Support Group
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20221215T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20221215T133000
DTSTAMP:20260610T053303
CREATED:20220915T182542Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20221219T215439Z
UID:14331-1671105600-1671111000@www.dnswm.org
SUMMARY:Online Book Club
DESCRIPTION:About #DWord Book Club		\n				\n				\n				\n							#DWord refers to the word “disability.”  Disability Network Southwest Michigan is thrilled to partner with Kalamazoo Public Library to provide the #DWord Book Club\, a book club dedicated to promoting access\, connection\, disability pride\, and spreading the message that Disability is not a bad word. \nJoin us for an opportunity to engage in respectful\, thought-provoking discussions of books by and about people with disabilities\, uplifting lived experiences from across the Disability Community and creating space for meaningful conversation and connection. \nAll are welcome\, whether you’re new to disability-focused literature or a longtime reader/consumer. This is a cost-free group and participants are not required to have a library card to join. To ensure accessibility for all\, each book is available in print\, digital\, and audiobook formats. 						\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																										\n				\n				\n				\n					\n			\n		\n				\n				\n				\n				\n							August’s book selection is I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults\, Autism Parents\, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards. 						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n				\n			August Meeting Details		\n				\n				\n				\n							Wednesday\, August 19\, 2026\, from 6:00 to 7:30 PMLocation: CEN/Boardroom at Kalamazoo Public Library\, located at 315 S. Rose St\, Kalamazoo\, MI 49007.Registration is not required for in-person participation.						\n				\n				\n				\n			Accommodations & Joining Virtually		\n				\n				\n				\n							Accommodations can be provided upon request. Call at Kalamazoo Public Library staff member Jade W. at (269) 553-7944 or reach out to her online. If in-person participation isn’t a good fit for any reason\, contact Jade for the opportunity to participate virtually via Zoom. 						\n				\n				\n				\n			About the Book Selection		\n				\n				\n				\n							August’s book selection is I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults\, Autism Parents\, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards. ABOUT — There is a significant divide between autistic advocates and parents of autistic children. Parents may feel attacked for their lack of understanding\, and autistic adults who offer insight and guidance are also met with hostility and rejection. Meghan Ashburn\, a mother of two autistic boys\, and Jules Edwards\, an autistic parent\, were no strangers to this tension and had an adversarial relationship when they first met. Over time\, the two resolved their differences and are now co-conspirators in the pursuit of disability justice. This book unites both perspectives\, exploring the rift between these communities and encouraging them to work towards a common goal. It provides context to dividing issues\, and the authors use their experience to illustrate where they’ve messed up\, where they’ve got things right\, and what they’ve learned along the way. 						\n				\n				\n				\n					\n			\n						\n		\n				\n				\n				\n				\n							For more information on this quarterly event and upcoming reading selections\, visit our #DWord Book Club page.
URL:https://www.dnswm.org/event/online-book-club-4/
CATEGORIES:Educational,Social
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.dnswm.org/wp-content/uploads/AllOurFamilies.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20220810T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20220810T120000
DTSTAMP:20260610T053303
CREATED:20210708T161021Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220929T193158Z
UID:14050-1660129200-1660132800@www.dnswm.org
SUMMARY:TAG Team
DESCRIPTION:About #DWord Book Club		\n				\n				\n				\n							#DWord refers to the word “disability.”  Disability Network Southwest Michigan is thrilled to partner with Kalamazoo Public Library to provide the #DWord Book Club\, a book club dedicated to promoting access\, connection\, disability pride\, and spreading the message that Disability is not a bad word. \nJoin us for an opportunity to engage in respectful\, thought-provoking discussions of books by and about people with disabilities\, uplifting lived experiences from across the Disability Community and creating space for meaningful conversation and connection. \nAll are welcome\, whether you’re new to disability-focused literature or a longtime reader/consumer. This is a cost-free group and participants are not required to have a library card to join. To ensure accessibility for all\, each book is available in print\, digital\, and audiobook formats. 						\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																										\n				\n				\n				\n					\n			\n		\n				\n				\n				\n				\n							August’s book selection is I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults\, Autism Parents\, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards. 						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n				\n			August Meeting Details		\n				\n				\n				\n							Wednesday\, August 19\, 2026\, from 6:00 to 7:30 PMLocation: CEN/Boardroom at Kalamazoo Public Library\, located at 315 S. Rose St\, Kalamazoo\, MI 49007.Registration is not required for in-person participation.						\n				\n				\n				\n			Accommodations & Joining Virtually		\n				\n				\n				\n							Accommodations can be provided upon request. Call at Kalamazoo Public Library staff member Jade W. at (269) 553-7944 or reach out to her online. If in-person participation isn’t a good fit for any reason\, contact Jade for the opportunity to participate virtually via Zoom. 						\n				\n				\n				\n			About the Book Selection		\n				\n				\n				\n							August’s book selection is I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults\, Autism Parents\, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards. ABOUT — There is a significant divide between autistic advocates and parents of autistic children. Parents may feel attacked for their lack of understanding\, and autistic adults who offer insight and guidance are also met with hostility and rejection. Meghan Ashburn\, a mother of two autistic boys\, and Jules Edwards\, an autistic parent\, were no strangers to this tension and had an adversarial relationship when they first met. Over time\, the two resolved their differences and are now co-conspirators in the pursuit of disability justice. This book unites both perspectives\, exploring the rift between these communities and encouraging them to work towards a common goal. It provides context to dividing issues\, and the authors use their experience to illustrate where they’ve messed up\, where they’ve got things right\, and what they’ve learned along the way. 						\n				\n				\n				\n					\n			\n						\n		\n				\n				\n				\n				\n							For more information on this quarterly event and upcoming reading selections\, visit our #DWord Book Club page.
URL:https://www.dnswm.org/event/tag-team-3-2021-10-13-2022-08-10/
LOCATION:Disability Network – Community Bldg Kalamazoo\, 517 E. Crosstown Parkway\, Kalamazoo\, MI\, 49001\, United States
CATEGORIES:Advocacy Group
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20221012T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20221012T120000
DTSTAMP:20260610T053303
CREATED:20210708T161021Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220923T125606Z
UID:14052-1665572400-1665576000@www.dnswm.org
SUMMARY:TAG Team
DESCRIPTION:About #DWord Book Club		\n				\n				\n				\n							#DWord refers to the word “disability.”  Disability Network Southwest Michigan is thrilled to partner with Kalamazoo Public Library to provide the #DWord Book Club\, a book club dedicated to promoting access\, connection\, disability pride\, and spreading the message that Disability is not a bad word. \nJoin us for an opportunity to engage in respectful\, thought-provoking discussions of books by and about people with disabilities\, uplifting lived experiences from across the Disability Community and creating space for meaningful conversation and connection. \nAll are welcome\, whether you’re new to disability-focused literature or a longtime reader/consumer. This is a cost-free group and participants are not required to have a library card to join. To ensure accessibility for all\, each book is available in print\, digital\, and audiobook formats. 						\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																										\n				\n				\n				\n					\n			\n		\n				\n				\n				\n				\n							August’s book selection is I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults\, Autism Parents\, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards. 						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n				\n			August Meeting Details		\n				\n				\n				\n							Wednesday\, August 19\, 2026\, from 6:00 to 7:30 PMLocation: CEN/Boardroom at Kalamazoo Public Library\, located at 315 S. Rose St\, Kalamazoo\, MI 49007.Registration is not required for in-person participation.						\n				\n				\n				\n			Accommodations & Joining Virtually		\n				\n				\n				\n							Accommodations can be provided upon request. Call at Kalamazoo Public Library staff member Jade W. at (269) 553-7944 or reach out to her online. If in-person participation isn’t a good fit for any reason\, contact Jade for the opportunity to participate virtually via Zoom. 						\n				\n				\n				\n			About the Book Selection		\n				\n				\n				\n							August’s book selection is I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults\, Autism Parents\, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards. ABOUT — There is a significant divide between autistic advocates and parents of autistic children. Parents may feel attacked for their lack of understanding\, and autistic adults who offer insight and guidance are also met with hostility and rejection. Meghan Ashburn\, a mother of two autistic boys\, and Jules Edwards\, an autistic parent\, were no strangers to this tension and had an adversarial relationship when they first met. Over time\, the two resolved their differences and are now co-conspirators in the pursuit of disability justice. This book unites both perspectives\, exploring the rift between these communities and encouraging them to work towards a common goal. It provides context to dividing issues\, and the authors use their experience to illustrate where they’ve messed up\, where they’ve got things right\, and what they’ve learned along the way. 						\n				\n				\n				\n					\n			\n						\n		\n				\n				\n				\n				\n							For more information on this quarterly event and upcoming reading selections\, visit our #DWord Book Club page.
URL:https://www.dnswm.org/event/tag-team-3-2021-10-13-2022-10-12/
LOCATION:Disability Network – Community Bldg Kalamazoo\, 517 E. Crosstown Parkway\, Kalamazoo\, MI\, 49001\, United States
CATEGORIES:Advocacy Group
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20220916T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20220916T120000
DTSTAMP:20260610T053303
CREATED:20220610T154015Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220915T183204Z
UID:13839-1663320600-1663329600@www.dnswm.org
SUMMARY:Webinar: Ableism 102
DESCRIPTION:About #DWord Book Club		\n				\n				\n				\n							#DWord refers to the word “disability.”  Disability Network Southwest Michigan is thrilled to partner with Kalamazoo Public Library to provide the #DWord Book Club\, a book club dedicated to promoting access\, connection\, disability pride\, and spreading the message that Disability is not a bad word. \nJoin us for an opportunity to engage in respectful\, thought-provoking discussions of books by and about people with disabilities\, uplifting lived experiences from across the Disability Community and creating space for meaningful conversation and connection. \nAll are welcome\, whether you’re new to disability-focused literature or a longtime reader/consumer. This is a cost-free group and participants are not required to have a library card to join. To ensure accessibility for all\, each book is available in print\, digital\, and audiobook formats. 						\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																										\n				\n				\n				\n					\n			\n		\n				\n				\n				\n				\n							August’s book selection is I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults\, Autism Parents\, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards. 						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n				\n			August Meeting Details		\n				\n				\n				\n							Wednesday\, August 19\, 2026\, from 6:00 to 7:30 PMLocation: CEN/Boardroom at Kalamazoo Public Library\, located at 315 S. Rose St\, Kalamazoo\, MI 49007.Registration is not required for in-person participation.						\n				\n				\n				\n			Accommodations & Joining Virtually		\n				\n				\n				\n							Accommodations can be provided upon request. Call at Kalamazoo Public Library staff member Jade W. at (269) 553-7944 or reach out to her online. If in-person participation isn’t a good fit for any reason\, contact Jade for the opportunity to participate virtually via Zoom. 						\n				\n				\n				\n			About the Book Selection		\n				\n				\n				\n							August’s book selection is I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults\, Autism Parents\, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards. ABOUT — There is a significant divide between autistic advocates and parents of autistic children. Parents may feel attacked for their lack of understanding\, and autistic adults who offer insight and guidance are also met with hostility and rejection. Meghan Ashburn\, a mother of two autistic boys\, and Jules Edwards\, an autistic parent\, were no strangers to this tension and had an adversarial relationship when they first met. Over time\, the two resolved their differences and are now co-conspirators in the pursuit of disability justice. This book unites both perspectives\, exploring the rift between these communities and encouraging them to work towards a common goal. It provides context to dividing issues\, and the authors use their experience to illustrate where they’ve messed up\, where they’ve got things right\, and what they’ve learned along the way. 						\n				\n				\n				\n					\n			\n						\n		\n				\n				\n				\n				\n							For more information on this quarterly event and upcoming reading selections\, visit our #DWord Book Club page.
URL:https://www.dnswm.org/event/webinar-ableism-102-6/
CATEGORIES:Educational
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20220930T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20220930T120000
DTSTAMP:20260610T053303
CREATED:20220808T134921Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220912T201125Z
UID:14148-1664532000-1664539200@www.dnswm.org
SUMMARY:Webmovie: Code of the Freaks
DESCRIPTION:About #DWord Book Club		\n				\n				\n				\n							#DWord refers to the word “disability.”  Disability Network Southwest Michigan is thrilled to partner with Kalamazoo Public Library to provide the #DWord Book Club\, a book club dedicated to promoting access\, connection\, disability pride\, and spreading the message that Disability is not a bad word. \nJoin us for an opportunity to engage in respectful\, thought-provoking discussions of books by and about people with disabilities\, uplifting lived experiences from across the Disability Community and creating space for meaningful conversation and connection. \nAll are welcome\, whether you’re new to disability-focused literature or a longtime reader/consumer. This is a cost-free group and participants are not required to have a library card to join. To ensure accessibility for all\, each book is available in print\, digital\, and audiobook formats. 						\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																										\n				\n				\n				\n					\n			\n		\n				\n				\n				\n				\n							August’s book selection is I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults\, Autism Parents\, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards. 						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n				\n			August Meeting Details		\n				\n				\n				\n							Wednesday\, August 19\, 2026\, from 6:00 to 7:30 PMLocation: CEN/Boardroom at Kalamazoo Public Library\, located at 315 S. Rose St\, Kalamazoo\, MI 49007.Registration is not required for in-person participation.						\n				\n				\n				\n			Accommodations & Joining Virtually		\n				\n				\n				\n							Accommodations can be provided upon request. Call at Kalamazoo Public Library staff member Jade W. at (269) 553-7944 or reach out to her online. If in-person participation isn’t a good fit for any reason\, contact Jade for the opportunity to participate virtually via Zoom. 						\n				\n				\n				\n			About the Book Selection		\n				\n				\n				\n							August’s book selection is I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults\, Autism Parents\, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards. ABOUT — There is a significant divide between autistic advocates and parents of autistic children. Parents may feel attacked for their lack of understanding\, and autistic adults who offer insight and guidance are also met with hostility and rejection. Meghan Ashburn\, a mother of two autistic boys\, and Jules Edwards\, an autistic parent\, were no strangers to this tension and had an adversarial relationship when they first met. Over time\, the two resolved their differences and are now co-conspirators in the pursuit of disability justice. This book unites both perspectives\, exploring the rift between these communities and encouraging them to work towards a common goal. It provides context to dividing issues\, and the authors use their experience to illustrate where they’ve messed up\, where they’ve got things right\, and what they’ve learned along the way. 						\n				\n				\n				\n					\n			\n						\n		\n				\n				\n				\n				\n							For more information on this quarterly event and upcoming reading selections\, visit our #DWord Book Club page.
URL:https://www.dnswm.org/event/webmovie-code-of-the-freaks/
CATEGORIES:Educational,Social
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20220927T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20220927T110000
DTSTAMP:20260610T053303
CREATED:20210708T160355Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230516T184725Z
UID:14000-1664276400-1664276400@www.dnswm.org
SUMMARY:Phenomenal Women Support Group
DESCRIPTION:About #DWord Book Club		\n				\n				\n				\n							#DWord refers to the word “disability.”  Disability Network Southwest Michigan is thrilled to partner with Kalamazoo Public Library to provide the #DWord Book Club\, a book club dedicated to promoting access\, connection\, disability pride\, and spreading the message that Disability is not a bad word. \nJoin us for an opportunity to engage in respectful\, thought-provoking discussions of books by and about people with disabilities\, uplifting lived experiences from across the Disability Community and creating space for meaningful conversation and connection. \nAll are welcome\, whether you’re new to disability-focused literature or a longtime reader/consumer. This is a cost-free group and participants are not required to have a library card to join. To ensure accessibility for all\, each book is available in print\, digital\, and audiobook formats. 						\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																										\n				\n				\n				\n					\n			\n		\n				\n				\n				\n				\n							August’s book selection is I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults\, Autism Parents\, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards. 						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n				\n			August Meeting Details		\n				\n				\n				\n							Wednesday\, August 19\, 2026\, from 6:00 to 7:30 PMLocation: CEN/Boardroom at Kalamazoo Public Library\, located at 315 S. Rose St\, Kalamazoo\, MI 49007.Registration is not required for in-person participation.						\n				\n				\n				\n			Accommodations & Joining Virtually		\n				\n				\n				\n							Accommodations can be provided upon request. Call at Kalamazoo Public Library staff member Jade W. at (269) 553-7944 or reach out to her online. If in-person participation isn’t a good fit for any reason\, contact Jade for the opportunity to participate virtually via Zoom. 						\n				\n				\n				\n			About the Book Selection		\n				\n				\n				\n							August’s book selection is I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults\, Autism Parents\, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards. ABOUT — There is a significant divide between autistic advocates and parents of autistic children. Parents may feel attacked for their lack of understanding\, and autistic adults who offer insight and guidance are also met with hostility and rejection. Meghan Ashburn\, a mother of two autistic boys\, and Jules Edwards\, an autistic parent\, were no strangers to this tension and had an adversarial relationship when they first met. Over time\, the two resolved their differences and are now co-conspirators in the pursuit of disability justice. This book unites both perspectives\, exploring the rift between these communities and encouraging them to work towards a common goal. It provides context to dividing issues\, and the authors use their experience to illustrate where they’ve messed up\, where they’ve got things right\, and what they’ve learned along the way. 						\n				\n				\n				\n					\n			\n						\n		\n				\n				\n				\n				\n							For more information on this quarterly event and upcoming reading selections\, visit our #DWord Book Club page.
URL:https://www.dnswm.org/event/phenomenal-women-support-group-2021-10-05-2022-09-27/
LOCATION:Disability Network – Community Bldg Kalamazoo\, 517 E. Crosstown Parkway\, Kalamazoo\, MI\, 49001\, United States
CATEGORIES:Support Group
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20220606T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20220606T103000
DTSTAMP:20260610T053303
CREATED:20220531T202003Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220923T162445Z
UID:13681-1654507800-1654511400@www.dnswm.org
SUMMARY:Spirit Club - Virtual Exercise
DESCRIPTION:About #DWord Book Club		\n				\n				\n				\n							#DWord refers to the word “disability.”  Disability Network Southwest Michigan is thrilled to partner with Kalamazoo Public Library to provide the #DWord Book Club\, a book club dedicated to promoting access\, connection\, disability pride\, and spreading the message that Disability is not a bad word. \nJoin us for an opportunity to engage in respectful\, thought-provoking discussions of books by and about people with disabilities\, uplifting lived experiences from across the Disability Community and creating space for meaningful conversation and connection. \nAll are welcome\, whether you’re new to disability-focused literature or a longtime reader/consumer. This is a cost-free group and participants are not required to have a library card to join. To ensure accessibility for all\, each book is available in print\, digital\, and audiobook formats. 						\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																										\n				\n				\n				\n					\n			\n		\n				\n				\n				\n				\n							August’s book selection is I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults\, Autism Parents\, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards. 						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n				\n			August Meeting Details		\n				\n				\n				\n							Wednesday\, August 19\, 2026\, from 6:00 to 7:30 PMLocation: CEN/Boardroom at Kalamazoo Public Library\, located at 315 S. Rose St\, Kalamazoo\, MI 49007.Registration is not required for in-person participation.						\n				\n				\n				\n			Accommodations & Joining Virtually		\n				\n				\n				\n							Accommodations can be provided upon request. Call at Kalamazoo Public Library staff member Jade W. at (269) 553-7944 or reach out to her online. If in-person participation isn’t a good fit for any reason\, contact Jade for the opportunity to participate virtually via Zoom. 						\n				\n				\n				\n			About the Book Selection		\n				\n				\n				\n							August’s book selection is I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults\, Autism Parents\, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards. ABOUT — There is a significant divide between autistic advocates and parents of autistic children. Parents may feel attacked for their lack of understanding\, and autistic adults who offer insight and guidance are also met with hostility and rejection. Meghan Ashburn\, a mother of two autistic boys\, and Jules Edwards\, an autistic parent\, were no strangers to this tension and had an adversarial relationship when they first met. Over time\, the two resolved their differences and are now co-conspirators in the pursuit of disability justice. This book unites both perspectives\, exploring the rift between these communities and encouraging them to work towards a common goal. It provides context to dividing issues\, and the authors use their experience to illustrate where they’ve messed up\, where they’ve got things right\, and what they’ve learned along the way. 						\n				\n				\n				\n					\n			\n						\n		\n				\n				\n				\n				\n							For more information on this quarterly event and upcoming reading selections\, visit our #DWord Book Club page.
URL:https://www.dnswm.org/event/spirit-club-virtual-exercise-3/
CATEGORIES:Social
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20220929T133000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20220929T153000
DTSTAMP:20260610T053303
CREATED:20220823T192649Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220923T161752Z
UID:14213-1664458200-1664465400@www.dnswm.org
SUMMARY:Brain Injury Survivors Meeting
DESCRIPTION:About #DWord Book Club		\n				\n				\n				\n							#DWord refers to the word “disability.”  Disability Network Southwest Michigan is thrilled to partner with Kalamazoo Public Library to provide the #DWord Book Club\, a book club dedicated to promoting access\, connection\, disability pride\, and spreading the message that Disability is not a bad word. \nJoin us for an opportunity to engage in respectful\, thought-provoking discussions of books by and about people with disabilities\, uplifting lived experiences from across the Disability Community and creating space for meaningful conversation and connection. \nAll are welcome\, whether you’re new to disability-focused literature or a longtime reader/consumer. This is a cost-free group and participants are not required to have a library card to join. To ensure accessibility for all\, each book is available in print\, digital\, and audiobook formats. 						\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																										\n				\n				\n				\n					\n			\n		\n				\n				\n				\n				\n							August’s book selection is I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults\, Autism Parents\, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards. 						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n				\n			August Meeting Details		\n				\n				\n				\n							Wednesday\, August 19\, 2026\, from 6:00 to 7:30 PMLocation: CEN/Boardroom at Kalamazoo Public Library\, located at 315 S. Rose St\, Kalamazoo\, MI 49007.Registration is not required for in-person participation.						\n				\n				\n				\n			Accommodations & Joining Virtually		\n				\n				\n				\n							Accommodations can be provided upon request. Call at Kalamazoo Public Library staff member Jade W. at (269) 553-7944 or reach out to her online. If in-person participation isn’t a good fit for any reason\, contact Jade for the opportunity to participate virtually via Zoom. 						\n				\n				\n				\n			About the Book Selection		\n				\n				\n				\n							August’s book selection is I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults\, Autism Parents\, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards. ABOUT — There is a significant divide between autistic advocates and parents of autistic children. Parents may feel attacked for their lack of understanding\, and autistic adults who offer insight and guidance are also met with hostility and rejection. Meghan Ashburn\, a mother of two autistic boys\, and Jules Edwards\, an autistic parent\, were no strangers to this tension and had an adversarial relationship when they first met. Over time\, the two resolved their differences and are now co-conspirators in the pursuit of disability justice. This book unites both perspectives\, exploring the rift between these communities and encouraging them to work towards a common goal. It provides context to dividing issues\, and the authors use their experience to illustrate where they’ve messed up\, where they’ve got things right\, and what they’ve learned along the way. 						\n				\n				\n				\n					\n			\n						\n		\n				\n				\n				\n				\n							For more information on this quarterly event and upcoming reading selections\, visit our #DWord Book Club page.
URL:https://www.dnswm.org/event/brain-injury-survivors-meeting-2022-09-29/
LOCATION:Disability Network – Community Bldg Kalamazoo\, 517 E. Crosstown Parkway\, Kalamazoo\, MI\, 49001\, United States
CATEGORIES:Social,Support Group
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20220916T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20220916T120000
DTSTAMP:20260610T053303
CREATED:20220610T154015Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220915T183204Z
UID:13839-1663320600-1663329600@www.dnswm.org
SUMMARY:Webinar: Ableism 102
DESCRIPTION:About #DWord Book Club		\n				\n				\n				\n							#DWord refers to the word “disability.”  Disability Network Southwest Michigan is thrilled to partner with Kalamazoo Public Library to provide the #DWord Book Club\, a book club dedicated to promoting access\, connection\, disability pride\, and spreading the message that Disability is not a bad word. \nJoin us for an opportunity to engage in respectful\, thought-provoking discussions of books by and about people with disabilities\, uplifting lived experiences from across the Disability Community and creating space for meaningful conversation and connection. \nAll are welcome\, whether you’re new to disability-focused literature or a longtime reader/consumer. This is a cost-free group and participants are not required to have a library card to join. To ensure accessibility for all\, each book is available in print\, digital\, and audiobook formats. 						\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																										\n				\n				\n				\n					\n			\n		\n				\n				\n				\n				\n							August’s book selection is I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults\, Autism Parents\, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards. 						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n				\n			August Meeting Details		\n				\n				\n				\n							Wednesday\, August 19\, 2026\, from 6:00 to 7:30 PMLocation: CEN/Boardroom at Kalamazoo Public Library\, located at 315 S. Rose St\, Kalamazoo\, MI 49007.Registration is not required for in-person participation.						\n				\n				\n				\n			Accommodations & Joining Virtually		\n				\n				\n				\n							Accommodations can be provided upon request. Call at Kalamazoo Public Library staff member Jade W. at (269) 553-7944 or reach out to her online. If in-person participation isn’t a good fit for any reason\, contact Jade for the opportunity to participate virtually via Zoom. 						\n				\n				\n				\n			About the Book Selection		\n				\n				\n				\n							August’s book selection is I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults\, Autism Parents\, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards. ABOUT — There is a significant divide between autistic advocates and parents of autistic children. Parents may feel attacked for their lack of understanding\, and autistic adults who offer insight and guidance are also met with hostility and rejection. Meghan Ashburn\, a mother of two autistic boys\, and Jules Edwards\, an autistic parent\, were no strangers to this tension and had an adversarial relationship when they first met. Over time\, the two resolved their differences and are now co-conspirators in the pursuit of disability justice. This book unites both perspectives\, exploring the rift between these communities and encouraging them to work towards a common goal. It provides context to dividing issues\, and the authors use their experience to illustrate where they’ve messed up\, where they’ve got things right\, and what they’ve learned along the way. 						\n				\n				\n				\n					\n			\n						\n		\n				\n				\n				\n				\n							For more information on this quarterly event and upcoming reading selections\, visit our #DWord Book Club page.
URL:https://www.dnswm.org/event/webinar-ableism-102-6/
CATEGORIES:Educational
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20220927T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20220927T110000
DTSTAMP:20260610T053303
CREATED:20210708T160355Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230516T184725Z
UID:14000-1664276400-1664276400@www.dnswm.org
SUMMARY:Phenomenal Women Support Group
DESCRIPTION:About #DWord Book Club		\n				\n				\n				\n							#DWord refers to the word “disability.”  Disability Network Southwest Michigan is thrilled to partner with Kalamazoo Public Library to provide the #DWord Book Club\, a book club dedicated to promoting access\, connection\, disability pride\, and spreading the message that Disability is not a bad word. \nJoin us for an opportunity to engage in respectful\, thought-provoking discussions of books by and about people with disabilities\, uplifting lived experiences from across the Disability Community and creating space for meaningful conversation and connection. \nAll are welcome\, whether you’re new to disability-focused literature or a longtime reader/consumer. This is a cost-free group and participants are not required to have a library card to join. To ensure accessibility for all\, each book is available in print\, digital\, and audiobook formats. 						\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																										\n				\n				\n				\n					\n			\n		\n				\n				\n				\n				\n							August’s book selection is I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults\, Autism Parents\, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards. 						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n				\n			August Meeting Details		\n				\n				\n				\n							Wednesday\, August 19\, 2026\, from 6:00 to 7:30 PMLocation: CEN/Boardroom at Kalamazoo Public Library\, located at 315 S. Rose St\, Kalamazoo\, MI 49007.Registration is not required for in-person participation.						\n				\n				\n				\n			Accommodations & Joining Virtually		\n				\n				\n				\n							Accommodations can be provided upon request. Call at Kalamazoo Public Library staff member Jade W. at (269) 553-7944 or reach out to her online. If in-person participation isn’t a good fit for any reason\, contact Jade for the opportunity to participate virtually via Zoom. 						\n				\n				\n				\n			About the Book Selection		\n				\n				\n				\n							August’s book selection is I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults\, Autism Parents\, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards. ABOUT — There is a significant divide between autistic advocates and parents of autistic children. Parents may feel attacked for their lack of understanding\, and autistic adults who offer insight and guidance are also met with hostility and rejection. Meghan Ashburn\, a mother of two autistic boys\, and Jules Edwards\, an autistic parent\, were no strangers to this tension and had an adversarial relationship when they first met. Over time\, the two resolved their differences and are now co-conspirators in the pursuit of disability justice. This book unites both perspectives\, exploring the rift between these communities and encouraging them to work towards a common goal. It provides context to dividing issues\, and the authors use their experience to illustrate where they’ve messed up\, where they’ve got things right\, and what they’ve learned along the way. 						\n				\n				\n				\n					\n			\n						\n		\n				\n				\n				\n				\n							For more information on this quarterly event and upcoming reading selections\, visit our #DWord Book Club page.
URL:https://www.dnswm.org/event/phenomenal-women-support-group-2021-10-05-2022-09-27/
LOCATION:Disability Network – Community Bldg Kalamazoo\, 517 E. Crosstown Parkway\, Kalamazoo\, MI\, 49001\, United States
CATEGORIES:Support Group
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20221206T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20221206T113000
DTSTAMP:20260610T053303
CREATED:20221219T221521Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20221219T221522Z
UID:16969-1670320800-1670326200@www.dnswm.org
SUMMARY:Autistic Adult Peer Support - Tuesday
DESCRIPTION:About #DWord Book Club		\n				\n				\n				\n							#DWord refers to the word “disability.”  Disability Network Southwest Michigan is thrilled to partner with Kalamazoo Public Library to provide the #DWord Book Club\, a book club dedicated to promoting access\, connection\, disability pride\, and spreading the message that Disability is not a bad word. \nJoin us for an opportunity to engage in respectful\, thought-provoking discussions of books by and about people with disabilities\, uplifting lived experiences from across the Disability Community and creating space for meaningful conversation and connection. \nAll are welcome\, whether you’re new to disability-focused literature or a longtime reader/consumer. This is a cost-free group and participants are not required to have a library card to join. To ensure accessibility for all\, each book is available in print\, digital\, and audiobook formats. 						\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																										\n				\n				\n				\n					\n			\n		\n				\n				\n				\n				\n							August’s book selection is I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults\, Autism Parents\, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards. 						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n				\n			August Meeting Details		\n				\n				\n				\n							Wednesday\, August 19\, 2026\, from 6:00 to 7:30 PMLocation: CEN/Boardroom at Kalamazoo Public Library\, located at 315 S. Rose St\, Kalamazoo\, MI 49007.Registration is not required for in-person participation.						\n				\n				\n				\n			Accommodations & Joining Virtually		\n				\n				\n				\n							Accommodations can be provided upon request. Call at Kalamazoo Public Library staff member Jade W. at (269) 553-7944 or reach out to her online. If in-person participation isn’t a good fit for any reason\, contact Jade for the opportunity to participate virtually via Zoom. 						\n				\n				\n				\n			About the Book Selection		\n				\n				\n				\n							August’s book selection is I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults\, Autism Parents\, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards. ABOUT — There is a significant divide between autistic advocates and parents of autistic children. Parents may feel attacked for their lack of understanding\, and autistic adults who offer insight and guidance are also met with hostility and rejection. Meghan Ashburn\, a mother of two autistic boys\, and Jules Edwards\, an autistic parent\, were no strangers to this tension and had an adversarial relationship when they first met. Over time\, the two resolved their differences and are now co-conspirators in the pursuit of disability justice. This book unites both perspectives\, exploring the rift between these communities and encouraging them to work towards a common goal. It provides context to dividing issues\, and the authors use their experience to illustrate where they’ve messed up\, where they’ve got things right\, and what they’ve learned along the way. 						\n				\n				\n				\n					\n			\n						\n		\n				\n				\n				\n				\n							For more information on this quarterly event and upcoming reading selections\, visit our #DWord Book Club page.
URL:https://www.dnswm.org/event/autistic-adult-peer-support-tuesday-2/
CATEGORIES:Social,Support Group
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20220907T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20220907T120000
DTSTAMP:20260610T053303
CREATED:20220610T153723Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220912T200956Z
UID:13836-1662541200-1662552000@www.dnswm.org
SUMMARY:Webinar: Ableism 101
DESCRIPTION:About #DWord Book Club		\n				\n				\n				\n							#DWord refers to the word “disability.”  Disability Network Southwest Michigan is thrilled to partner with Kalamazoo Public Library to provide the #DWord Book Club\, a book club dedicated to promoting access\, connection\, disability pride\, and spreading the message that Disability is not a bad word. \nJoin us for an opportunity to engage in respectful\, thought-provoking discussions of books by and about people with disabilities\, uplifting lived experiences from across the Disability Community and creating space for meaningful conversation and connection. \nAll are welcome\, whether you’re new to disability-focused literature or a longtime reader/consumer. This is a cost-free group and participants are not required to have a library card to join. To ensure accessibility for all\, each book is available in print\, digital\, and audiobook formats. 						\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																										\n				\n				\n				\n					\n			\n		\n				\n				\n				\n				\n							August’s book selection is I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults\, Autism Parents\, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards. 						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n				\n			August Meeting Details		\n				\n				\n				\n							Wednesday\, August 19\, 2026\, from 6:00 to 7:30 PMLocation: CEN/Boardroom at Kalamazoo Public Library\, located at 315 S. Rose St\, Kalamazoo\, MI 49007.Registration is not required for in-person participation.						\n				\n				\n				\n			Accommodations & Joining Virtually		\n				\n				\n				\n							Accommodations can be provided upon request. Call at Kalamazoo Public Library staff member Jade W. at (269) 553-7944 or reach out to her online. If in-person participation isn’t a good fit for any reason\, contact Jade for the opportunity to participate virtually via Zoom. 						\n				\n				\n				\n			About the Book Selection		\n				\n				\n				\n							August’s book selection is I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults\, Autism Parents\, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards. ABOUT — There is a significant divide between autistic advocates and parents of autistic children. Parents may feel attacked for their lack of understanding\, and autistic adults who offer insight and guidance are also met with hostility and rejection. Meghan Ashburn\, a mother of two autistic boys\, and Jules Edwards\, an autistic parent\, were no strangers to this tension and had an adversarial relationship when they first met. Over time\, the two resolved their differences and are now co-conspirators in the pursuit of disability justice. This book unites both perspectives\, exploring the rift between these communities and encouraging them to work towards a common goal. It provides context to dividing issues\, and the authors use their experience to illustrate where they’ve messed up\, where they’ve got things right\, and what they’ve learned along the way. 						\n				\n				\n				\n					\n			\n						\n		\n				\n				\n				\n				\n							For more information on this quarterly event and upcoming reading selections\, visit our #DWord Book Club page.
URL:https://www.dnswm.org/event/webinar-ableism-101-11/
CATEGORIES:Educational
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20220606T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20220606T103000
DTSTAMP:20260610T053303
CREATED:20220531T202003Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220923T162445Z
UID:13681-1654507800-1654511400@www.dnswm.org
SUMMARY:Spirit Club - Virtual Exercise
DESCRIPTION:About #DWord Book Club		\n				\n				\n				\n							#DWord refers to the word “disability.”  Disability Network Southwest Michigan is thrilled to partner with Kalamazoo Public Library to provide the #DWord Book Club\, a book club dedicated to promoting access\, connection\, disability pride\, and spreading the message that Disability is not a bad word. \nJoin us for an opportunity to engage in respectful\, thought-provoking discussions of books by and about people with disabilities\, uplifting lived experiences from across the Disability Community and creating space for meaningful conversation and connection. \nAll are welcome\, whether you’re new to disability-focused literature or a longtime reader/consumer. This is a cost-free group and participants are not required to have a library card to join. To ensure accessibility for all\, each book is available in print\, digital\, and audiobook formats. 						\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																										\n				\n				\n				\n					\n			\n		\n				\n				\n				\n				\n							August’s book selection is I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults\, Autism Parents\, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards. 						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n				\n			August Meeting Details		\n				\n				\n				\n							Wednesday\, August 19\, 2026\, from 6:00 to 7:30 PMLocation: CEN/Boardroom at Kalamazoo Public Library\, located at 315 S. Rose St\, Kalamazoo\, MI 49007.Registration is not required for in-person participation.						\n				\n				\n				\n			Accommodations & Joining Virtually		\n				\n				\n				\n							Accommodations can be provided upon request. Call at Kalamazoo Public Library staff member Jade W. at (269) 553-7944 or reach out to her online. If in-person participation isn’t a good fit for any reason\, contact Jade for the opportunity to participate virtually via Zoom. 						\n				\n				\n				\n			About the Book Selection		\n				\n				\n				\n							August’s book selection is I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults\, Autism Parents\, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards. ABOUT — There is a significant divide between autistic advocates and parents of autistic children. Parents may feel attacked for their lack of understanding\, and autistic adults who offer insight and guidance are also met with hostility and rejection. Meghan Ashburn\, a mother of two autistic boys\, and Jules Edwards\, an autistic parent\, were no strangers to this tension and had an adversarial relationship when they first met. Over time\, the two resolved their differences and are now co-conspirators in the pursuit of disability justice. This book unites both perspectives\, exploring the rift between these communities and encouraging them to work towards a common goal. It provides context to dividing issues\, and the authors use their experience to illustrate where they’ve messed up\, where they’ve got things right\, and what they’ve learned along the way. 						\n				\n				\n				\n					\n			\n						\n		\n				\n				\n				\n				\n							For more information on this quarterly event and upcoming reading selections\, visit our #DWord Book Club page.
URL:https://www.dnswm.org/event/spirit-club-virtual-exercise-3/
CATEGORIES:Social
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20221201T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20221201T173000
DTSTAMP:20260610T053303
CREATED:20221129T183831Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20221129T184153Z
UID:15741-1669910400-1669915800@www.dnswm.org
SUMMARY:Autistic Adult Peer Support – Thursday
DESCRIPTION:About #DWord Book Club		\n				\n				\n				\n							#DWord refers to the word “disability.”  Disability Network Southwest Michigan is thrilled to partner with Kalamazoo Public Library to provide the #DWord Book Club\, a book club dedicated to promoting access\, connection\, disability pride\, and spreading the message that Disability is not a bad word. \nJoin us for an opportunity to engage in respectful\, thought-provoking discussions of books by and about people with disabilities\, uplifting lived experiences from across the Disability Community and creating space for meaningful conversation and connection. \nAll are welcome\, whether you’re new to disability-focused literature or a longtime reader/consumer. This is a cost-free group and participants are not required to have a library card to join. To ensure accessibility for all\, each book is available in print\, digital\, and audiobook formats. 						\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																										\n				\n				\n				\n					\n			\n		\n				\n				\n				\n				\n							August’s book selection is I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults\, Autism Parents\, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards. 						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n				\n			August Meeting Details		\n				\n				\n				\n							Wednesday\, August 19\, 2026\, from 6:00 to 7:30 PMLocation: CEN/Boardroom at Kalamazoo Public Library\, located at 315 S. Rose St\, Kalamazoo\, MI 49007.Registration is not required for in-person participation.						\n				\n				\n				\n			Accommodations & Joining Virtually		\n				\n				\n				\n							Accommodations can be provided upon request. Call at Kalamazoo Public Library staff member Jade W. at (269) 553-7944 or reach out to her online. If in-person participation isn’t a good fit for any reason\, contact Jade for the opportunity to participate virtually via Zoom. 						\n				\n				\n				\n			About the Book Selection		\n				\n				\n				\n							August’s book selection is I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults\, Autism Parents\, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards. ABOUT — There is a significant divide between autistic advocates and parents of autistic children. Parents may feel attacked for their lack of understanding\, and autistic adults who offer insight and guidance are also met with hostility and rejection. Meghan Ashburn\, a mother of two autistic boys\, and Jules Edwards\, an autistic parent\, were no strangers to this tension and had an adversarial relationship when they first met. Over time\, the two resolved their differences and are now co-conspirators in the pursuit of disability justice. This book unites both perspectives\, exploring the rift between these communities and encouraging them to work towards a common goal. It provides context to dividing issues\, and the authors use their experience to illustrate where they’ve messed up\, where they’ve got things right\, and what they’ve learned along the way. 						\n				\n				\n				\n					\n			\n						\n		\n				\n				\n				\n				\n							For more information on this quarterly event and upcoming reading selections\, visit our #DWord Book Club page.
URL:https://www.dnswm.org/event/autistic-adult-peer-support-2/
CATEGORIES:Social,Support Group
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20220929T133000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20220929T153000
DTSTAMP:20260610T053303
CREATED:20220823T192649Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220923T161752Z
UID:14213-1664458200-1664465400@www.dnswm.org
SUMMARY:Brain Injury Survivors Meeting
DESCRIPTION:About #DWord Book Club		\n				\n				\n				\n							#DWord refers to the word “disability.”  Disability Network Southwest Michigan is thrilled to partner with Kalamazoo Public Library to provide the #DWord Book Club\, a book club dedicated to promoting access\, connection\, disability pride\, and spreading the message that Disability is not a bad word. \nJoin us for an opportunity to engage in respectful\, thought-provoking discussions of books by and about people with disabilities\, uplifting lived experiences from across the Disability Community and creating space for meaningful conversation and connection. \nAll are welcome\, whether you’re new to disability-focused literature or a longtime reader/consumer. This is a cost-free group and participants are not required to have a library card to join. To ensure accessibility for all\, each book is available in print\, digital\, and audiobook formats. 						\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																										\n				\n				\n				\n					\n			\n		\n				\n				\n				\n				\n							August’s book selection is I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults\, Autism Parents\, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards. 						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n				\n			August Meeting Details		\n				\n				\n				\n							Wednesday\, August 19\, 2026\, from 6:00 to 7:30 PMLocation: CEN/Boardroom at Kalamazoo Public Library\, located at 315 S. Rose St\, Kalamazoo\, MI 49007.Registration is not required for in-person participation.						\n				\n				\n				\n			Accommodations & Joining Virtually		\n				\n				\n				\n							Accommodations can be provided upon request. Call at Kalamazoo Public Library staff member Jade W. at (269) 553-7944 or reach out to her online. If in-person participation isn’t a good fit for any reason\, contact Jade for the opportunity to participate virtually via Zoom. 						\n				\n				\n				\n			About the Book Selection		\n				\n				\n				\n							August’s book selection is I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults\, Autism Parents\, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards. ABOUT — There is a significant divide between autistic advocates and parents of autistic children. Parents may feel attacked for their lack of understanding\, and autistic adults who offer insight and guidance are also met with hostility and rejection. Meghan Ashburn\, a mother of two autistic boys\, and Jules Edwards\, an autistic parent\, were no strangers to this tension and had an adversarial relationship when they first met. Over time\, the two resolved their differences and are now co-conspirators in the pursuit of disability justice. This book unites both perspectives\, exploring the rift between these communities and encouraging them to work towards a common goal. It provides context to dividing issues\, and the authors use their experience to illustrate where they’ve messed up\, where they’ve got things right\, and what they’ve learned along the way. 						\n				\n				\n				\n					\n			\n						\n		\n				\n				\n				\n				\n							For more information on this quarterly event and upcoming reading selections\, visit our #DWord Book Club page.
URL:https://www.dnswm.org/event/brain-injury-survivors-meeting-2022-09-29/
LOCATION:Disability Network – Community Bldg Kalamazoo\, 517 E. Crosstown Parkway\, Kalamazoo\, MI\, 49001\, United States
CATEGORIES:Social,Support Group
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20220927T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20220927T110000
DTSTAMP:20260610T053303
CREATED:20210708T160355Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230516T184725Z
UID:14000-1664276400-1664276400@www.dnswm.org
SUMMARY:Phenomenal Women Support Group
DESCRIPTION:About #DWord Book Club		\n				\n				\n				\n							#DWord refers to the word “disability.”  Disability Network Southwest Michigan is thrilled to partner with Kalamazoo Public Library to provide the #DWord Book Club\, a book club dedicated to promoting access\, connection\, disability pride\, and spreading the message that Disability is not a bad word. \nJoin us for an opportunity to engage in respectful\, thought-provoking discussions of books by and about people with disabilities\, uplifting lived experiences from across the Disability Community and creating space for meaningful conversation and connection. \nAll are welcome\, whether you’re new to disability-focused literature or a longtime reader/consumer. This is a cost-free group and participants are not required to have a library card to join. To ensure accessibility for all\, each book is available in print\, digital\, and audiobook formats. 						\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																										\n				\n				\n				\n					\n			\n		\n				\n				\n				\n				\n							August’s book selection is I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults\, Autism Parents\, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards. 						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n				\n			August Meeting Details		\n				\n				\n				\n							Wednesday\, August 19\, 2026\, from 6:00 to 7:30 PMLocation: CEN/Boardroom at Kalamazoo Public Library\, located at 315 S. Rose St\, Kalamazoo\, MI 49007.Registration is not required for in-person participation.						\n				\n				\n				\n			Accommodations & Joining Virtually		\n				\n				\n				\n							Accommodations can be provided upon request. Call at Kalamazoo Public Library staff member Jade W. at (269) 553-7944 or reach out to her online. If in-person participation isn’t a good fit for any reason\, contact Jade for the opportunity to participate virtually via Zoom. 						\n				\n				\n				\n			About the Book Selection		\n				\n				\n				\n							August’s book selection is I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults\, Autism Parents\, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards. ABOUT — There is a significant divide between autistic advocates and parents of autistic children. Parents may feel attacked for their lack of understanding\, and autistic adults who offer insight and guidance are also met with hostility and rejection. Meghan Ashburn\, a mother of two autistic boys\, and Jules Edwards\, an autistic parent\, were no strangers to this tension and had an adversarial relationship when they first met. Over time\, the two resolved their differences and are now co-conspirators in the pursuit of disability justice. This book unites both perspectives\, exploring the rift between these communities and encouraging them to work towards a common goal. It provides context to dividing issues\, and the authors use their experience to illustrate where they’ve messed up\, where they’ve got things right\, and what they’ve learned along the way. 						\n				\n				\n				\n					\n			\n						\n		\n				\n				\n				\n				\n							For more information on this quarterly event and upcoming reading selections\, visit our #DWord Book Club page.
URL:https://www.dnswm.org/event/phenomenal-women-support-group-2021-10-05-2022-09-27/
LOCATION:Disability Network – Community Bldg Kalamazoo\, 517 E. Crosstown Parkway\, Kalamazoo\, MI\, 49001\, United States
CATEGORIES:Support Group
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20220606T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20220606T103000
DTSTAMP:20260610T053303
CREATED:20220531T202003Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220923T162445Z
UID:13681-1654507800-1654511400@www.dnswm.org
SUMMARY:Spirit Club - Virtual Exercise
DESCRIPTION:About #DWord Book Club		\n				\n				\n				\n							#DWord refers to the word “disability.”  Disability Network Southwest Michigan is thrilled to partner with Kalamazoo Public Library to provide the #DWord Book Club\, a book club dedicated to promoting access\, connection\, disability pride\, and spreading the message that Disability is not a bad word. \nJoin us for an opportunity to engage in respectful\, thought-provoking discussions of books by and about people with disabilities\, uplifting lived experiences from across the Disability Community and creating space for meaningful conversation and connection. \nAll are welcome\, whether you’re new to disability-focused literature or a longtime reader/consumer. This is a cost-free group and participants are not required to have a library card to join. To ensure accessibility for all\, each book is available in print\, digital\, and audiobook formats. 						\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																										\n				\n				\n				\n					\n			\n		\n				\n				\n				\n				\n							August’s book selection is I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults\, Autism Parents\, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards. 						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n				\n			August Meeting Details		\n				\n				\n				\n							Wednesday\, August 19\, 2026\, from 6:00 to 7:30 PMLocation: CEN/Boardroom at Kalamazoo Public Library\, located at 315 S. Rose St\, Kalamazoo\, MI 49007.Registration is not required for in-person participation.						\n				\n				\n				\n			Accommodations & Joining Virtually		\n				\n				\n				\n							Accommodations can be provided upon request. Call at Kalamazoo Public Library staff member Jade W. at (269) 553-7944 or reach out to her online. If in-person participation isn’t a good fit for any reason\, contact Jade for the opportunity to participate virtually via Zoom. 						\n				\n				\n				\n			About the Book Selection		\n				\n				\n				\n							August’s book selection is I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults\, Autism Parents\, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards. ABOUT — There is a significant divide between autistic advocates and parents of autistic children. Parents may feel attacked for their lack of understanding\, and autistic adults who offer insight and guidance are also met with hostility and rejection. Meghan Ashburn\, a mother of two autistic boys\, and Jules Edwards\, an autistic parent\, were no strangers to this tension and had an adversarial relationship when they first met. Over time\, the two resolved their differences and are now co-conspirators in the pursuit of disability justice. This book unites both perspectives\, exploring the rift between these communities and encouraging them to work towards a common goal. It provides context to dividing issues\, and the authors use their experience to illustrate where they’ve messed up\, where they’ve got things right\, and what they’ve learned along the way. 						\n				\n				\n				\n					\n			\n						\n		\n				\n				\n				\n				\n							For more information on this quarterly event and upcoming reading selections\, visit our #DWord Book Club page.
URL:https://www.dnswm.org/event/spirit-club-virtual-exercise-3/
CATEGORIES:Social
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20220929T133000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20220929T153000
DTSTAMP:20260610T053303
CREATED:20220823T192649Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220923T161752Z
UID:14213-1664458200-1664465400@www.dnswm.org
SUMMARY:Brain Injury Survivors Meeting
DESCRIPTION:About #DWord Book Club		\n				\n				\n				\n							#DWord refers to the word “disability.”  Disability Network Southwest Michigan is thrilled to partner with Kalamazoo Public Library to provide the #DWord Book Club\, a book club dedicated to promoting access\, connection\, disability pride\, and spreading the message that Disability is not a bad word. \nJoin us for an opportunity to engage in respectful\, thought-provoking discussions of books by and about people with disabilities\, uplifting lived experiences from across the Disability Community and creating space for meaningful conversation and connection. \nAll are welcome\, whether you’re new to disability-focused literature or a longtime reader/consumer. This is a cost-free group and participants are not required to have a library card to join. To ensure accessibility for all\, each book is available in print\, digital\, and audiobook formats. 						\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																										\n				\n				\n				\n					\n			\n		\n				\n				\n				\n				\n							August’s book selection is I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults\, Autism Parents\, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards. 						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n				\n			August Meeting Details		\n				\n				\n				\n							Wednesday\, August 19\, 2026\, from 6:00 to 7:30 PMLocation: CEN/Boardroom at Kalamazoo Public Library\, located at 315 S. Rose St\, Kalamazoo\, MI 49007.Registration is not required for in-person participation.						\n				\n				\n				\n			Accommodations & Joining Virtually		\n				\n				\n				\n							Accommodations can be provided upon request. Call at Kalamazoo Public Library staff member Jade W. at (269) 553-7944 or reach out to her online. If in-person participation isn’t a good fit for any reason\, contact Jade for the opportunity to participate virtually via Zoom. 						\n				\n				\n				\n			About the Book Selection		\n				\n				\n				\n							August’s book selection is I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults\, Autism Parents\, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards. ABOUT — There is a significant divide between autistic advocates and parents of autistic children. Parents may feel attacked for their lack of understanding\, and autistic adults who offer insight and guidance are also met with hostility and rejection. Meghan Ashburn\, a mother of two autistic boys\, and Jules Edwards\, an autistic parent\, were no strangers to this tension and had an adversarial relationship when they first met. Over time\, the two resolved their differences and are now co-conspirators in the pursuit of disability justice. This book unites both perspectives\, exploring the rift between these communities and encouraging them to work towards a common goal. It provides context to dividing issues\, and the authors use their experience to illustrate where they’ve messed up\, where they’ve got things right\, and what they’ve learned along the way. 						\n				\n				\n				\n					\n			\n						\n		\n				\n				\n				\n				\n							For more information on this quarterly event and upcoming reading selections\, visit our #DWord Book Club page.
URL:https://www.dnswm.org/event/brain-injury-survivors-meeting-2022-09-29/
LOCATION:Disability Network – Community Bldg Kalamazoo\, 517 E. Crosstown Parkway\, Kalamazoo\, MI\, 49001\, United States
CATEGORIES:Social,Support Group
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20220928T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20220928T133000
DTSTAMP:20260610T053303
CREATED:20210708T161408Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220923T162244Z
UID:14066-1664368200-1664371800@www.dnswm.org
SUMMARY:Access Team
DESCRIPTION:About #DWord Book Club		\n				\n				\n				\n							#DWord refers to the word “disability.”  Disability Network Southwest Michigan is thrilled to partner with Kalamazoo Public Library to provide the #DWord Book Club\, a book club dedicated to promoting access\, connection\, disability pride\, and spreading the message that Disability is not a bad word. \nJoin us for an opportunity to engage in respectful\, thought-provoking discussions of books by and about people with disabilities\, uplifting lived experiences from across the Disability Community and creating space for meaningful conversation and connection. \nAll are welcome\, whether you’re new to disability-focused literature or a longtime reader/consumer. This is a cost-free group and participants are not required to have a library card to join. To ensure accessibility for all\, each book is available in print\, digital\, and audiobook formats. 						\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																										\n				\n				\n				\n					\n			\n		\n				\n				\n				\n				\n							August’s book selection is I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults\, Autism Parents\, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards. 						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n				\n			August Meeting Details		\n				\n				\n				\n							Wednesday\, August 19\, 2026\, from 6:00 to 7:30 PMLocation: CEN/Boardroom at Kalamazoo Public Library\, located at 315 S. Rose St\, Kalamazoo\, MI 49007.Registration is not required for in-person participation.						\n				\n				\n				\n			Accommodations & Joining Virtually		\n				\n				\n				\n							Accommodations can be provided upon request. Call at Kalamazoo Public Library staff member Jade W. at (269) 553-7944 or reach out to her online. If in-person participation isn’t a good fit for any reason\, contact Jade for the opportunity to participate virtually via Zoom. 						\n				\n				\n				\n			About the Book Selection		\n				\n				\n				\n							August’s book selection is I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults\, Autism Parents\, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards. ABOUT — There is a significant divide between autistic advocates and parents of autistic children. Parents may feel attacked for their lack of understanding\, and autistic adults who offer insight and guidance are also met with hostility and rejection. Meghan Ashburn\, a mother of two autistic boys\, and Jules Edwards\, an autistic parent\, were no strangers to this tension and had an adversarial relationship when they first met. Over time\, the two resolved their differences and are now co-conspirators in the pursuit of disability justice. This book unites both perspectives\, exploring the rift between these communities and encouraging them to work towards a common goal. It provides context to dividing issues\, and the authors use their experience to illustrate where they’ve messed up\, where they’ve got things right\, and what they’ve learned along the way. 						\n				\n				\n				\n					\n			\n						\n		\n				\n				\n				\n				\n							For more information on this quarterly event and upcoming reading selections\, visit our #DWord Book Club page.
URL:https://www.dnswm.org/event/access-team-3-2021-10-13-2022-09-28/
LOCATION:Disability Network – Community Bldg Kalamazoo\, 517 E. Crosstown Parkway\, Kalamazoo\, MI\, 49001\, United States
CATEGORIES:Advocacy Group
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20220927T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20220927T110000
DTSTAMP:20260610T053303
CREATED:20210708T160355Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230516T184725Z
UID:14000-1664276400-1664276400@www.dnswm.org
SUMMARY:Phenomenal Women Support Group
DESCRIPTION:About #DWord Book Club		\n				\n				\n				\n							#DWord refers to the word “disability.”  Disability Network Southwest Michigan is thrilled to partner with Kalamazoo Public Library to provide the #DWord Book Club\, a book club dedicated to promoting access\, connection\, disability pride\, and spreading the message that Disability is not a bad word. \nJoin us for an opportunity to engage in respectful\, thought-provoking discussions of books by and about people with disabilities\, uplifting lived experiences from across the Disability Community and creating space for meaningful conversation and connection. \nAll are welcome\, whether you’re new to disability-focused literature or a longtime reader/consumer. This is a cost-free group and participants are not required to have a library card to join. To ensure accessibility for all\, each book is available in print\, digital\, and audiobook formats. 						\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																										\n				\n				\n				\n					\n			\n		\n				\n				\n				\n				\n							August’s book selection is I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults\, Autism Parents\, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards. 						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n				\n			August Meeting Details		\n				\n				\n				\n							Wednesday\, August 19\, 2026\, from 6:00 to 7:30 PMLocation: CEN/Boardroom at Kalamazoo Public Library\, located at 315 S. Rose St\, Kalamazoo\, MI 49007.Registration is not required for in-person participation.						\n				\n				\n				\n			Accommodations & Joining Virtually		\n				\n				\n				\n							Accommodations can be provided upon request. Call at Kalamazoo Public Library staff member Jade W. at (269) 553-7944 or reach out to her online. If in-person participation isn’t a good fit for any reason\, contact Jade for the opportunity to participate virtually via Zoom. 						\n				\n				\n				\n			About the Book Selection		\n				\n				\n				\n							August’s book selection is I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults\, Autism Parents\, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards. ABOUT — There is a significant divide between autistic advocates and parents of autistic children. Parents may feel attacked for their lack of understanding\, and autistic adults who offer insight and guidance are also met with hostility and rejection. Meghan Ashburn\, a mother of two autistic boys\, and Jules Edwards\, an autistic parent\, were no strangers to this tension and had an adversarial relationship when they first met. Over time\, the two resolved their differences and are now co-conspirators in the pursuit of disability justice. This book unites both perspectives\, exploring the rift between these communities and encouraging them to work towards a common goal. It provides context to dividing issues\, and the authors use their experience to illustrate where they’ve messed up\, where they’ve got things right\, and what they’ve learned along the way. 						\n				\n				\n				\n					\n			\n						\n		\n				\n				\n				\n				\n							For more information on this quarterly event and upcoming reading selections\, visit our #DWord Book Club page.
URL:https://www.dnswm.org/event/phenomenal-women-support-group-2021-10-05-2022-09-27/
LOCATION:Disability Network – Community Bldg Kalamazoo\, 517 E. Crosstown Parkway\, Kalamazoo\, MI\, 49001\, United States
CATEGORIES:Support Group
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20220606T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20220606T103000
DTSTAMP:20260610T053303
CREATED:20220531T202003Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20220923T162445Z
UID:13681-1654507800-1654511400@www.dnswm.org
SUMMARY:Spirit Club - Virtual Exercise
DESCRIPTION:About #DWord Book Club		\n				\n				\n				\n							#DWord refers to the word “disability.”  Disability Network Southwest Michigan is thrilled to partner with Kalamazoo Public Library to provide the #DWord Book Club\, a book club dedicated to promoting access\, connection\, disability pride\, and spreading the message that Disability is not a bad word. \nJoin us for an opportunity to engage in respectful\, thought-provoking discussions of books by and about people with disabilities\, uplifting lived experiences from across the Disability Community and creating space for meaningful conversation and connection. \nAll are welcome\, whether you’re new to disability-focused literature or a longtime reader/consumer. This is a cost-free group and participants are not required to have a library card to join. To ensure accessibility for all\, each book is available in print\, digital\, and audiobook formats. 						\n				\n					\n		\n				\n			\n						\n				\n																										\n				\n				\n				\n					\n			\n		\n				\n				\n				\n				\n							August’s book selection is I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults\, Autism Parents\, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards. 						\n				\n					\n		\n					\n		\n				\n				\n			August Meeting Details		\n				\n				\n				\n							Wednesday\, August 19\, 2026\, from 6:00 to 7:30 PMLocation: CEN/Boardroom at Kalamazoo Public Library\, located at 315 S. Rose St\, Kalamazoo\, MI 49007.Registration is not required for in-person participation.						\n				\n				\n				\n			Accommodations & Joining Virtually		\n				\n				\n				\n							Accommodations can be provided upon request. Call at Kalamazoo Public Library staff member Jade W. at (269) 553-7944 or reach out to her online. If in-person participation isn’t a good fit for any reason\, contact Jade for the opportunity to participate virtually via Zoom. 						\n				\n				\n				\n			About the Book Selection		\n				\n				\n				\n							August’s book selection is I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults\, Autism Parents\, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards. ABOUT — There is a significant divide between autistic advocates and parents of autistic children. Parents may feel attacked for their lack of understanding\, and autistic adults who offer insight and guidance are also met with hostility and rejection. Meghan Ashburn\, a mother of two autistic boys\, and Jules Edwards\, an autistic parent\, were no strangers to this tension and had an adversarial relationship when they first met. Over time\, the two resolved their differences and are now co-conspirators in the pursuit of disability justice. This book unites both perspectives\, exploring the rift between these communities and encouraging them to work towards a common goal. It provides context to dividing issues\, and the authors use their experience to illustrate where they’ve messed up\, where they’ve got things right\, and what they’ve learned along the way. 						\n				\n				\n				\n					\n			\n						\n		\n				\n				\n				\n				\n							For more information on this quarterly event and upcoming reading selections\, visit our #DWord Book Club page.
URL:https://www.dnswm.org/event/spirit-club-virtual-exercise-3/
CATEGORIES:Social
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR